logo and main navigation container

APPLY NOW Begin your future at Lenoir-Rhyne – apply today. Our online application and admission process is easy to complete and our knowledgeable staff are here to help – every step of the way.

SCHEDULE A VISIT Discover the history of our campus, visit our classrooms and student housing, stop by the University Bookstore, and imagine yourself as an LR Bear. Schedule a visit today and see for yourself allthat LRU has to offer.

MEET OUR STUDENTS Learn more about our students and see them in action. Each student at LRU has a unique story to tell. What will your story be?

SCHEDULE A VISIT Discover the history of our campus, visit our classrooms and student housing, stop by the University Bookstore, and imagine yourself as an LR Bear. Schedule a visit today and see for yourself all that LRU has to offer.

APPLY NOW Begin your future at Lenoir-Rhyne – apply today. Our online application and admission process is easy to complete and our knowledgeable staff are here to help – every step of the way.

SCHEDULE A VISIT Discover the history of our campus, visit our classrooms and student housing, stop by the University Bookstore, and imagine yourself as an LR Bear. Schedule a visit today and see for yourself allthat LRU has to offer.

SUPPORT THE BEARS Get the latest news, check out schedules, follow your favorite team on social media, and more on the Athletics website.

BEARS CLUB The Bears Club is the official fundraising arm of Lenoir-Rhyne University Athletics. Founded in 1946, the Bears Club coordinates the annual athletic fundraising, capital and endowment gifts for Lenoir-Rhyne Athletics. The purpose of the Bears Club is to support athletic scholarships and program costs for Lenoir-Rhyne's 22 men's and women's intercollegiate athletic teams.

APPLY NOW Begin your future at Lenoir-Rhyne – apply today. Our online application and admission process is easy to complete and our knowledgeable staff are here to help – every step of the way.

SCHEDULE A VISIT Discover the history of our campus, visit our classrooms and student housing, stop by the University Bookstore, and imagine yourself as an LR Bear. Schedule a visit today and see for yourself allthat LRU has to offer.

Admissions dropdown hidden nav (Needed)

2nd level sub navigation

ABOUT MIDDLE GRADES EDUCATION

The Middle Grades Education major prepares students to take charge of 6th-9th grade classrooms across our region and beyond. This nationally recognized program is built upon exceptional partnerships with public schools throughout central and western North Carolina. Students are immersed in a variety of courses which prepare them to effectively plan, deliver research-based instruction, differentiate the curriculum for all learners, use the latest instructional technologies, and develop a global perspective for 21st century classrooms. A strong emphasis is placed on the critical importance of serving students with disabilities and other exceptionalities within the regular classroom. In addition, the Middle Grades program focuses on helping students understand young adolescents and how to effectively manage middle school classrooms. We believe that this is the best preparation a future teacher can receive for today's classrooms.

LR’s Education programs are nationally accredited through NCATE. Students will receive exceptional mentoring and support in preparation for teacher licensure exit examinations. Job search and placement support is provided for all students. All Education faculty have significant public school teaching experience to augment their qualifications as university professors.

LEARNING OUTSIDE THE CLASSROOM

Teacher preparation is a demanding program that necessarily integrates classroom theory with “real world” application. Successful majors will engage in substantial hours of field experiences in public school classrooms. Additionally, they will complete a full-time internship in the final semester of their program. Lenoir-Rhyne Middle Grades Education majors are given community service opportunities throughout the program such as tutoring, mentorships, and school-based services. Students may also choose to participate in study abroad options, in conferences focusing on teaching young adolescents and understanding global educational issues, and/or numerous other activities through the student organizations in Education. The Middle Grades Education program focuses on preparing students for modern education practice and encourages growth and analysis through both student-faculty research and student-led honors research projects. Qualified students are able to participate in and contribute to the LR Teaching Scholars Program, which provides additional learning opportunities on and away from campus.

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

Completion of the major in Middle Grades Education (along with all other state licensure requirements) is designed to prepare students to meet the expectations of Grades 6-9 teaching. The education program furnishes extensive job search and placement support for its qualified graduates as they complete their undergraduate programs. Majors find middle grades education positions in public, private, and charter schools.